Nature of Suppository Bases

The base must be capable of melting, softening, or dissolving to release its drug for absorption. The base should not irritate the mucous membranes of the rectum Avoiding colonic response and prompt a bowel movement, eliminating the prospect of complete drug release and absorption. No chemical and/or physical interactions between the medicinal agent and the suppository base, which may affect the stability and/or bioavailability of the drug. Long-acting or slow-release suppositories are also prepared. Morphine sulfate in slow-release suppositories is prepared by compounding pharmacists. The base includes a material such as alginic acid, which will prolong the release of the drug over several hours .